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2023-07-10

Future is Female: Celebrating Emirati Engineering Prowess

The engineering field offers a unique opportunity to solve complex problems and develop innovative solutions, as it allows professionals to tackle challenges related to the design, production, and optimisation of processes and products. Whether using new materials, improving manufacturing efficiency, or finding new solutions, engineers can significantly impact any industry by using their creativity.

On the occasion of International Women in Engineering Day 2023, Nation Shield spoke to Salama Alheara, Chemical Engineer, HALCON, Mouza Al Aryani from the Technical Affair School – AL TAIF, and Sarah Salem Ahmed Salem Alkaabi, Chemical Engineer – EPI, to find out about the impact Emirati women engineers are making in the defence industry and how they are paving the way for future generations. Excerpts:

Describe your current role and contributions to the entity.

Alheara: In my role, I am the Manager of explosives and pyrotechnics development in HALCON’s Energetic Material Sub-Systems (EMSS) department. Working closely with HALCON’s CTO of Propulsion, Dr. Gideon Van Zyl, I lead multiple R&D projects within the department while training and overseeing junior engineers. I hold a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, majoring in Energetic Materials, from the University of Belgrade, Serbia. Since graduating in 2021, I have gone on to present my Master’s thesis in international seminars around the world.

The findings and applications of my thesis are a vital resource for the EMSS department, significantly reducing the risks involved in researching and developing aerial sub-systems that use hazardous materials.

Al Aryani: My current role at AL TAIF is as an engineer, while my work entails analysing, building and testing machines and complex systems. I am able to play a part in innovative solutions that strengthen customer capabilities and manufacture various engineered components and contribute to materials testing and calibration, as well as mechanical building. I can also provide analysis in areas such as material characteristics, properties, structures and composition against specified criteria and intended application.

ALkaabi: I am proud to be an Emirati who was recognised by the EDGE Group and was given this opportunity at EPI as a chemical engineer in the Quality Department, where I developed my technical skills as per international aerospace standards. At EPI, we have the largest facility for surface treatment in the Middle East, and my role is to ensure that all surface treatment processes are according to defined specifications and that the surface treatment environment is safe for everyone. Additionally, I am involved in several projects with our main clients, including AIRBUS (France) and Boeing (U.S.), to collaborate and ensure that the internal and external process specifications are aligned.

Why did you choose the defence domain for your profession?

Alheara: In 2019, I joined HALCON as a junior engineer. I was immediately given once-in-a-lifetime experiences, working with HALCON’s world-class experts that have encouraged and pushed my career to reach heights I never anticipated in such a short space of time. As one of only two chemical engineers at HALCON at the time, I, alongside a colleague, played a leading role in establishing HALCON’s Cathode Electro Deposition (CED) coating facility within the Special Manufacturing Division. My passion for chemical engineering and, specifically, energetic materials apply to multiple industries. Ultimately, I did not choose the defence industry. I chose an advanced technology company that actively and progressively elevates Emirati engineers to reach new heights.

Al Aryani: As a technical affairs student working in ground vehicle maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), I chose this profession because I have always been fascinated by the intricate workings of machinery and the practical application of engineering principles. The defence domain particularly appealed to me because it offers a unique combination of technical challenges, innovation, and the opportunity to contribute to the security and future of my country.

Alkaabi: I have always been passionate about using my skills and knowledge to contribute to the safety and security of my country. The engineering sector offers a unique opportunity to apply engineering principles to develop advanced technologies and systems crucial in building our nation’s sovereign capabilities and a chance to impact the global aerospace industry significantly. The prospect of working on projects that directly impact the security of my great country, as well as giving back to my people, motivated me to choose this field.

What are the challenges you face as a woman working in the defence sector? And how did you overcome them?

Alheara: The challenges I face are not related to being a woman. At HALCON, we consistently accomplish ‘firsts’ for the UAE and ourselves. For example, our CED facility is the first of its kind in the UAE. My colleague, Shaikha Aldarmaki, and I were amongst the first Emirati women in the defence industry to obtain Master’s degrees in energetic materials. Doing something for the first time will almost always be a challenge. When the CED facility was in the early phases of development, we had to seek expertise and use examples of facilities in other countries. The capabilities, solutions, and facilities we are developing require going bravely where no Emirati women have gone before.

Alkaabi: Being a woman in the engineering defence sector presents its own challenges. The engineering sphere is often male-dominated, and there can be stereotypes that women must confront. One of the challenges I faced was the underrepresentation of women in technical roles, which sometimes made it difficult to find relatable role models and mentors. To overcome these challenges, I focused on building a strong support network. I sought mentors who could guide me through the industry and provide valuable advice. By actively seeking opportunities for growth and development in the chemical engineering field, I enhanced my skills and knowledge, which boosted my confidence and helped me navigate the challenges I encountered. Additionally, I always remember this phrase, “Nothing is impossible for the UAE”, as my motto when facing any challenge.

How are your ambitions and capabilities supporting your country’s national defence capabilities?

Al Aryani: I aim to contribute to my country’s defence capabilities by constantly striving for excellence in my field. I work collaboratively with my colleagues, sharing knowledge and expertise to improve maintenance processes, streamline operations, and introduce innovative solutions. Additionally, I recognise the value of different perspectives and experiences in driving innovation and problem-solving. By bringing my expertise to our organisation, I contribute to the overall effectiveness and success of defence initiatives.

Alkaabi: My diverse perspectives and experiences as a woman engineer bring a unique and valuable contribution to the engineering sector. Diversity fosters innovation and problem-solving, and by promoting an inclusive environment, we can tap into a broader range of ideas and approaches. I’m very proud to live in a country that supports this inclusivity and equal opportunities, and together with my colleagues, I can contribute to the overall effectiveness and success of our machining projects.

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